A celebration of comfort… and luxury.

Janet Perry chose a career in the hospitality business and consciously decided when and where to invest time and money. She took a chance by remodeling and adding to her stately, century home in the heart of Guelph. It was a big risk, but it was worth taking.

Norfolk Guest House, located at the top of the Eramosa Road hill, is a historic and luxurious place of rest.

Twelve years ago, when Perry bought this Victorian, red brick home in the centre of Guelph, she envisioned a place where people would be very comfortable – maybe even a little more comfortable than at home.

Perry worked very hard to accomplish her dream. The road to Norfolk Guest House has not been an easy one, and included four years of living in one tiny room near the front entrance of the bed and breakfast. Yes, actually living – office, bedroom, dining room, any personal space – in what is now a small parlour.

The front entrance beckons passersby. An old lamp post lights the way to a solid wooden door with a heavy iron knocker. Inside, the grand centre hall stimulates further exploration. The inlaid oak floor in the hall and pine floor in the dining room are left as they were found – perfect.

Here, the saying: "small enough to care; large enough to accommodate," makes sense. The dining room, with its 13-foot ceilings, beautifully carved antique table, and ornate wall sconces, invites the public into this historic treasure.

The décor style is classic with flair. The melding of old and new is finely accomplished. "I'm not really faithful to either one," Perry explains with a smile. As she points out one of the beaded lamp shades, she states emphatically, "I love beads and gilding. I think I was born in the wrong century. Just put me in a Byzantine cathedral and I'd be enthralled." An eclectic combination of furniture and décor is tastefully done.

The dining room’s 13-foot ceilings and carved antique table create a setting that encourages long conversation after a great meal.

To the immediate right, past the front door, is the Queen Suite, with private en suite. Romantic, sheer drapes and an elegant four-poster bed set the tone for an indulgent time. The en suite tile work is incredible and the Jacuzzi speaks of letting go. A feature of this room is the ceiling – intricately carved plasterwork gives all who enter a sore neck from admiration.

In the centre hallway, the original grand staircase leads to a spacious landing on the second floor. Here, a water cooler stands alongside a unique, carved wooden chest and a one-of-a-kind antique cupboard. A curved archway leads to two washrooms: one exclusive to the Bombay Room with a jetted tub. Both the Bombay Room and the Turkish Room breathe comfort and luxury.

The halls leading to the Penthouse and the Grand View Suite are lined with original paintings by local artist Scott Pattison. The B&B feels like a gallery, and Pattison brings his clients here to choose a painting they desire.

The three-story addition, planned by Craige Frede and virtually undetected from the front of this home, claims the space once occupied by a shed. It houses the much-needed personal living area for Perry and her partner, Ken, as well as the Grand View Suite on the second floor and the Penthouse above.

Having modern amenities does not mean losing the feel or look of an older home. Perry carefully researched every aspect of this project. "My whole goal was to go local and Canadian-owned. Almost everything – windows, cabinetry, tiling, clapboard, fixtures, even the Jacuzzis – is from the J.L.'s Home Hardware here in town. They have access to everything," she says. A frequent guest, Serge Holoduke, of Metalumen, planned the lighting design.

The Grand View Suite is warmed by the flames of this elegant fireplace and features a wrap-around balcony and a two-person Jacuzzi tub.

"I wanted a contractor who could do the old home – a real craftsman," says Perry. Richard Frede of Richard Frede Constuction Ltd. is certainly a quality custom builder and contractor. "There is the standard code and," Perry motions high in the air, adding, "Richard goes above. He goes the extra nine yards. To me, he is the Mike Holmes of Guelph. He agreed to do this home because he fell in love with the century house and saw how hard I worked to preserve it."

The landscaping, currently underway, was also designed by local experts, who approached the project with much thought and consideration. Christopher Campbell Landscape Architects designed the outside living area with privacy, ease, and beauty in mind. The arbours, seating areas, sculptures and plants are reminiscent of a country spa. Just Landscaping is busy adding shrubs and other historic plants. Periwinkle groupings dotted with aromatic lily-of the-valley abound along the original structure. Large ceramic pots, dwarfed by lush hydrangeas and hostas, are positioned along the bricked walkways, expertly laid by Boomer Creek Homes. This restful oasis was carefully planned to encourage relaxation.

It was challenging to honour the historic values of the city and those of the neighbours. A lot of thought and care was put into the comfort of the neighbours and the structure of the building.

"It was an eye-opening experience to realize all the rules and regulations," says Perry. "The city was accommodating and helpful. They gave us many suggestions, which enhanced the building." Together, Campbell and Ian Panabaker, Heritage and Urban Design Planner for the city of Guelph, were involved in the redesign of the gardens. "They both knew how to incorporate old with new," Perry affirms. The result is compelling and verdant.

Perry is very pleased with all the sub-trades. "Superb workmanship," she says. "Everyone who worked here was incredibly respectful, always showed up on time, and was very good at his or her trade."

The Turkish Room is an exotic beauty in rich, red tones. The ornate, antique brass bed is canopied with gorgeous fabrics from the East.

Perry gives an example of the expert work, focusing on the electrician from Soehner Electric in Elmira. "I specifically wanted him because he did the old house and he is thorough," she says. "Richard took photos of every step. We had access to everything. When the people came to do the wireless work, they were impressed. This is one of the only old homes where they could readily find everything."

The kitchen, which is a perfect blend of business and private space, meets all the needs of this busy abode. The huge granite-topped island is a gathering place, free from any appliances. To maintain the look of an older home, contemporary materials are blended with antique-looking fixtures and hardware. Steve Weber of Advanced Craftsmen in Elmira did all the cabinetry and finishing woodwork.

Large bay windows surround the adjacent dining area. Simple window coverings are minimal because the frames, Perry points out, need to be seen. The work is impeccable, seamless and smooth. As Perry says, "Why cover it up?"

The focal point in the spacious living room is a classic stone fireplace. This elegantly furnished room, with its vaulted ceiling and creamy walls, exudes serenity and warmth.

The Grand View Suite, aptly named for its view of the gardens, features a wrap-around balcony, accessible through two sets of double doors. The ornate light fixtures (replicas of the old) and Klimt artwork are amazing. With its stone mantle, heated stone floors, imported linens, private en suite and Jacuzzi, this place is a dream.

The kitchen, situated in the three-storey addition to the home, features island seating and a dining table. An impressive collection of vintage and choice wines fill the wine fridge.

The Penthouse conveys comfort, ease and luxury. The kitchenette, balcony overlooking the rooftops below, monogrammed bathrobes, fresh, pressed linens, comfy leather chair and carved mantle beckon guests to relax and enjoy.

Perry loves Guelph and supports local businesses. She often suggests places to enjoy the sights and sounds of this great city. She also makes sure she is aware of people's needs and tries her best to meet them. "After all, this business is about a good night's sleep," she says. "So it depends what you want: a business trip, a romantic getaway, a weekend off or a night at the theatre?"

No matter what your needs, after a tiring day, it's great to come to a comfortable, classy place. Norfolk Guest House offers upscale accommodation with a side of historic beauty.